Spurs are focusing all their attention on landing Ndombele from Lyon, and they will then turn their attentions to younger targets.

Mauricio Pochettino’s transfer plan actually looks very smart, as Spurs can change opinions on the potential deal if they land Ndombele first.

If Spurs were to sign £20 million-rated (Daily Mirror) Clarke from Leeds right now, there would almost certainly be question marks over their ambition.

Clarke may have looked a bright prospect at Leeds, but with Tottenham fans demanding high profile targets, it’s almost certain that some supporters would view the jinking winger as an underwhelming addition.

The last thing Clarke needs, if he does move to Spurs, is a backdrop of negativity around the transfer, as it will just make things harder for him.

And if Tottenham can get a more high profile deal done before signing the Leeds man, then it’s almost a guarantee that opinions would change.

If Spurs snap up Ndombele, any accusations about Clarke being a cheap option would be absolutely ludicrous, as Tottenham will have proven their ambition beyond all doubt.

And Pochettino’s side are doing things very smartly this summer, by leaving Clarke to stay at Leeds for the time being.

John Verrall

John is a sports journalism graduate from Staffordshire University. He is a huge football fan and a minute-by-minute writer for UEFA.com, as well as being a freelance writer for Sports New Media. John has also seen his work been published by the likes of The Guardian, World Soccer and Shoot Magazine over the course of his bourgeoning journalism career so far. He has a particular expertise in all things to do with the Football League – and is a passionate Peterborough United fan.